Coming Out Leads to Better Mental Health for GLBT Teens
A new study says gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender high school students who come out to their peers have higher self-esteem and lower rates of depression than teens who are not open about their orientations. The study found GLBT teens often experienced victimization regardless of whether they had come out at school, so researchers believe fear of bullying should not deter teens from living their lives openly.

New Marijuana Law Takes Effect in Alaska
This week, recreational marijuana becomes legal in Alaska, with anyone 21 or older allowed to possess an ounce of marijuana. In Oregon, a similar law will take effect in July. Last November, voters in both states chose to legalize the drug, just as Colorado and Washington did in 2012. Because these state laws apply to those age 21 or older, marijuana remains illegal for teens to possess or smoke anywhere.

Half of Teen Girls Don’t Get HPV Vaccine by Recommended Age
Only 56 percent of girls receive the HPV vaccine by the time they reach their teen years, according to a University of Texas study. Doctors recommend girls get the vaccine at age 11 or 12. The vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against human papillomavirus, which causes cervical cancer and other cancers. If you didn’t receive the vaccine at age 11–12, doctors recommend you get it as a teen or young adult up to age 26—boys included.

February Is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month
Do you know what makes a healthy relationship? This month is dedicated to halting teen dating violence and teaching teens the value of respect in relationships. More than a third of teens have experienced physical, emotional, or sexual violence from a boyfriend or girlfriend. About one in ten teens have experienced physical violence from a partner in the past year.